Pelvic floor physiotherapy has become a cornerstone for enhancing bowel control among men and women, addressing a health issue that can significantly impact quality of life. In Edmonton, individuals experiencing such difficulties have access to pelvic floor physiotherapy, a treatment modality that strengthens the pelvic muscles and improves the function of the pelvic organs.
Recognized for its effectiveness, pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton provides targeted exercises and techniques suitable for both male and female patients to improve muscle coordination and increase bowel support.
Assessment
The first step in treating bowel control issues through pelvic floor physiotherapy involves a thorough assessment by a trained pelvic floor physiotherapist. This assessment might include a discussion of symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and physical examinations.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
Pelvic floor muscle training is the cornerstone of improving bowel control. It involves exercises designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which can help support the rectum and improve anal sphincter function as part of pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton. Pelvic floor muscles are identified using biofeedback by attaching sensors to the body that monitor muscle activity. The feedback helps the physiotherapist and patient pinpoint the correct muscles to engage. This guidance ensures that exercises are performed correctly, maximizing the benefits of the training.
Kegel Exercises
These targeted exercises involve tightening and holding the muscles that control urine flow, which are also crucial for regulating bowel movements.
Technique: Once the pelvic floor muscles are identified, the basic technique involves tightening them, holding the contraction for three to five seconds, and then relaxing them for the same duration. It’s important to breathe freely during the exercises and ensure that only the pelvic floor muscles are engaged, avoiding tightening the abdomen and thighs.
Frequency and Duration: For best results, aim to perform three sets of 10 to 15 repetitions every day. Consistency is key to building endurance and strength in the pelvic floor muscles.
Progressive Difficulty: As muscle control improves, increase the duration of the muscle contractions and the time you hold each contraction. Adding more repetitions and sets can also enhance muscle strength over time.
Since pelvic floor muscles can be challenging to isolate and exercise correctly, working with a physiotherapist specialized in male pelvic and female pelvic floor physiotherapy can be immensely beneficial.
Incorporating Bowel Management Strategies
Alongside pelvic floor muscle training, implementing effective bowel management strategies can further enhance bowel control:
- Scheduled Toileting: Regular toileting helps condition the body to have regular bowel movements, reducing the risk of incontinence. This involves setting specific times during the day to try to pass stool, regardless of the urge to defecate.
- Dietary Adjustments: Including more fibre can significantly improve stool consistency and regularity. Fibre helps to bulk up and soften the stool, making it easier to control and pass. Drinking plenty of water is also necessary, as it helps fibre function most effectively.
Manual Therapy
Manual therapy techniques are used in pelvic floor physiotherapy to help relax and stretch tight pelvic muscles that contribute to bowel dysfunction.
Myofascial Release
This is one of the manual therapy techniques that alleviates tension in the pelvic floor muscles.
- The physiotherapist manipulates the skin and underlying tissues surrounding the pelvic area hands-on. This method includes applying gentle, sustained pressure to the myofascial connective tissue restrictions.
- The goal is to relax contracted muscles, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulate muscle stretch reflex.
- The therapist will locate areas of tightness and gently manipulate these spots to stretch and release the fascia. This process may involve holding the areas of tight fascia for a few minutes until the therapist feels the tissue relax and release.
- This technique helps reduce pelvic pain and increases the range of motion, enhancing the functional capacity of the pelvic floor, which directly impacts bowel control.
Trigger Point Release
Trigger point release is another crucial manual therapy technique in pelvic floor physiotherapy. It is particularly effective for treating localized muscle tension and pain.
- The physiotherapist applies direct pressure to specific points on the pelvic floor muscles, known as trigger points, which are tight knots within the muscle.
- The aim is to relieve the source of the pain through cycles of targeted pressure and release.
- The therapist identifies trigger points and applies controlled pressure using fingertips or specialized tools. The pressure is maintained until the muscle relaxes, typically a few seconds to a minute per trigger point.
- Trigger point release can significantly reduce muscle stiffness and pain in the pelvic area, thereby improving muscle function and aiding in better bowel control.
Electrostimulation
For patients who struggle to identify or activate their pelvic floor muscles, electrostimulation can be an invaluable addition to manual therapy.
- Electrostimulation involves using a device that emits mild electrical impulses. These impulses are delivered to the pelvic floor muscles through electrodes placed on the skin or via an anal or vaginal probe.
- Electrical impulse intensity and frequency are changed according to patient comfort and therapeutic goals. Sessions last 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the patient’s specific needs and response.
- Electrostimulation can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve sensory awareness, and ultimately contribute to better control over bowel movements. It is particularly helpful for patients who cannot effectively perform pelvic floor muscle exercises.
For patients seeking relief from pelvic floor-related bowel issues, these techniques are beneficial as part of comprehensive pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton.
Empowering Pelvic Health Through Physiotherapy
Momentum Physiotherapy offers pelvic health physiotherapy structured to meet the unique needs of both men and women. Through female and male pelvic floor physiotherapy, individuals can significantly improve muscle strength and functionality, leading to better bowel control and enhanced pelvic health.
Our clinic’s dedicated team of physiotherapists is committed to providing holistic care that deals with the root causes of pelvic floor dysfunction.
If you’re ready to take control of your pelvic health, contact Momentum Physiotherapy today. Discover how targeted pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton can help you achieve lasting results and return to a more comfortable and confident lifestyle.
Read More: How Red Pine Needle Oil Keeps You Healthy and Active